If you’re here, you’re likely on the hunt for beautiful, low-maintenance plants that can thrive in low-light conditions. Whether your space is naturally dim or you just want to add some greenery to a room without direct sunlight, plenty of plants can flourish without a lot of light. Let’s dive into the best low-light plants to brighten up your home!
Why Choose Low Light Plants?
Before we get into our top picks, let's talk about why low-light plants are such a great addition to your home:
- Versatility: Low-light plants can thrive in areas with minimal sunlight, making them perfect for apartments, offices, and rooms with few windows.
- Low Maintenance: These plants typically require less frequent watering and are more resilient to neglect, making them ideal for busy lifestyles.
- Air Purification: Many low-light plants are excellent air purifiers that help improve indoor air quality by removing toxins.
Top 10 Low-Light Plants
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, this plant is a staple in the world of low-light plants. It’s virtually indestructible, tolerating neglect and low light like a champ. Snake plants have striking, upright leaves that come in various shades of green with unique patterns. Fun fact: The Sansevieria can also tolerate blaring sun, making it our number-one recommendation for an easy-care houseplant. There are lots of different types of snake plants to choose from, and we always like to have a few more unusual varieties in stock.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ Plant is famous for its glossy, waxy leaves and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. It’s also incredibly drought-tolerant, making it perfect for those who might forget to water regularly. We generally always have this plant in stock, and if you're lucky, we might even have the raven cultivator in!
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a vining plant that can grow in various lighting conditions, from low to bright, indirect light. It’s known for its heart-shaped leaves and can be trained to climb or trail, adding a lush, green touch to any space. There are many exciting varieties of pothos to choose from as well!
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace Lilies are not only beautiful with their glossy leaves and white flowers, but they also do well in low light. They’re also excellent at filtering indoor air pollutants, making them a healthy addition to your home. The best part about this plant is that it lets you know immediately when it’s thirsty, so it takes the guesswork out of knowing when to water. Check out the variegated version if you want a peace Lilly with a twist.
5. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider Plants are easy to grow and very adaptable. They produce arching leaves and small “spiderettes” that dangle down, making them great for hanging baskets. They can thrive in low to medium light and are also known for their air-purifying qualities. Our favourite Chlorophytym may not look too much like the spider plants you're used to, but we promise it's just as easy to care for. Check it out here.
6. Philodendron
I always like to say that Philodendrons just love being alive. They can adapt to various lighting conditions, particularly low light. They come in both vining and non-vining varieties, offering versatility for different decor styles. This is a great beginner plant and perfect to start with if you want to build a collection, as there are hundreds of different types. We are big philodendron nerds at the plant studio, and we always like to have a few exciting cultivators on hand.
7. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is incredibly tough and can withstand various conditions, including low light. Its dark green, leathery leaves add a touch of elegance to any room. The best part about this plant is that it’s also drought tolerant, perfect for forgetful waterers. Unlike many of its tropical friends, it can also tolerate a cooler space.
8. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese Evergreens are known for their beautiful, variegated leaves and adaptability to low-light conditions. They come in shades of green, often with silver or red markings, adding a splash of colour to dim spaces.
9. Dracaena
Dracaenas are stylish and easy to care for, with long, arching leaves in various colours and patterns. They prefer low to medium light and can grow quite tall, making them perfect for filling empty corners.
10. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
The Parlor Palm is a classic indoor plant that has been popular since the Victorian era. It’s slow-growing and thrives in low light, adding a touch of tropical elegance to any room with its feathery green fronds.
Tips for Caring for Low-Light Plants
- Water Wisely: Overwatering is a common mistake. Let the soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
- Rotate Regularly: Give your plants a quarter turn every few weeks to ensure even growth.
- Dust Leaves: Clean the leaves periodically to help absorb light more efficiently.
- Use Fertilizer Sparingly: Low-light plants don’t need much fertiliser. Feed them lightly during the growing season.
Conclusion
Adding low-light plants to your home is a fantastic way to bring nature indoors, even in spaces with minimal sunlight. These resilient plants are perfect for beginners and seasoned plant parents alike. Visit our shop to find the perfect low-light plants for your space and start enjoying the many benefits they bring!